acac Fitness & Wellness Centers » Corporatehttp://acac.com
Sat, 01 Aug 2015 10:48:03 +0000en-UShourly1http://wordpress.org/?v=4.2.3core strength: how to work the core while you’re at workhttp://acac.com/2015/07/22/core-strength-how-to-work-the-core-while-youre-at-work/
http://acac.com/2015/07/22/core-strength-how-to-work-the-core-while-youre-at-work/#commentsWed, 22 Jul 2015 12:50:15 +0000http://acac.com/?p=22592Many of us are hearing and reading about the importance of a strong core. Here are some common questions and some ways that working adults can mix core exercises into a busy day in the office. Why is core strength so important? A major function of your core is your posture. Your posture affects your breathing […]

]]>Many of us are hearing and reading about the importance of a strong core. Here are some common questions and some ways that working adults can mix core exercises into a busy day in the office.

Why is core strength so important?

A major function of your core is your posture. Your posture affects your breathing and balance, not to mention your body appearance. Having good posture can make the body appear as much as 5 to 10 pounds thinner. A strong core can also help prevent back pain and prevent injury.

When finding time to work out is a challenge, are there ways to work in some core exercises outside of the gym?

There are many simple exercises you can do even if you’re at work! Here are a few that we like ranging from basic to moderate in terms of effort.

In-chair foot lifts:

1. Sit in a chair with shoulders relaxed, back supported by the chair, feet evenly placed on the floor. Try to imagine your head is sitting naturally on top of your shoulders, not pushing forward or backward. 2. On an exhale, lift one foot float off the floor. Focus on keeping your tummy/belly button still. 3. Place the foot down, making sure you maintain even pressure on both feet. 4. Changing legs, on another exhale lift the opposite foot/knee. 5. Do 10 lifts with each leg, alternating each time.

Abdominal Circles:

1. Sit in a chair with good posture, aligning your tail bone with the top of your head. Feet should be hip-width apart on the ground in front of you. 2. Tighten and hold your lower abdominal muscles for three seconds. 3. Focus on your right side muscles, tighten and hold for three seconds. 4. Focus on your left side muscles, tighten and hold for three seconds. 5. Repeat (lower, right, left) for a minute.

Chair Crunches

1. Sit up straight with your knees bent and feet flat on the floor. 2. Place your hands lightly on either side of your head and curl your body downward. 3. Squeeze your abs forcefully while exhaling, rise back up, inhaling, and repeat. For a variation, alternate the elbow to the opposite knee.

Elbows to Knees

1. Sit up straight and place your hands lightly on either side of your head. 2. Twist your body as you lift your left leg and bring your right elbow toward your left knee. 3. Hold for a second, lower your leg and center your body back to an upright position. 4. Repeat the same movement going to the opposite side, lift your right leg and bring your left elbow to your right knee. 5. Try 10 to 12 repetitions in a slow, steady, continuous motion.

Plank

1. Using either a sturdy chair or work desk: place your hands on the edge (facing chair or desk) and walk your feet backwards until your body forms an angle. 2. Your feet should be hip-width apart, hold your hips in the air to form a straight line from your shoulders to your heels. Hold for 20 to 45 seconds.

If you would like more ideas to strengthen your core, just ask any acac Fitness Specialist!

To learn more about our personal trainers, visit the training pages of your club:

]]>http://acac.com/2015/07/22/core-strength-how-to-work-the-core-while-youre-at-work/feed/0podcast: exercise for healthy aginghttp://acac.com/2015/07/17/podcast-exercise-for-healthy-aging/
http://acac.com/2015/07/17/podcast-exercise-for-healthy-aging/#commentsFri, 17 Jul 2015 20:35:44 +0000http://acac.com/?p=22681The importance of exercise for healthy aging cannot be underestimated. There are benefits to be had from becoming active at any age and staying active. In this podcast, acac Fitness specialist Pete Cross joins WINA 1070's Jeanne McCusker on the radio show "A Graceful Life" to discuss this important topic.

Exercise and healthy aging go hand in hand. Most of us recognize that staying active as we age will prolong our independence and quality of life.

In her interview with Pete, Jeanne asks the all-important question: “Is it ever too late to start exercising?”

“No, it is not!” answers Pete. Illustrating his point, Pete briefly mentions the celebration of a long-time acac member who recently celebrated his 100th birthday. In the podcast, Pete discusses several of the benefits of exercise for healthy aging, including improved body balance, mental health, bone density and muscle strength, and decreased risk for depression and other illnesses.

Common questions when beginning an exercise program include: ‘What exercises are best for me?’, ‘How often and how long do I need to work out?’, and ‘Am I doing the exercise safely and effectively?’ Pete emphasizes that getting good information can get you started off on the right foot. As a medical fitness professional with acac‘s Physician Referred Exercise Program- p.r.e.p.®, he sees firsthand the difference that instruction and assistance can make in making progress towards better health. A program like p.r.e.p., which is $60 for 60 days, can help give a needed jumpstart for a healthy lifestyle both in and out of the gym.

]]>http://acac.com/2015/07/17/podcast-exercise-for-healthy-aging/feed/010 Ways to Make Packing Your Lunch More Enjoyablehttp://acac.com/2015/07/13/10-ways-to-make-packing-your-lunch-more-enjoyable/
http://acac.com/2015/07/13/10-ways-to-make-packing-your-lunch-more-enjoyable/#commentsMon, 13 Jul 2015 14:05:59 +0000http://acac.com/?p=22594Packing your lunch for work can save you hundreds of dollars over the course of a year. It can also help you lose weight and eat healthier. Taking a little time to plan on the weekend or the night before can provide you with a nutritious lunch that you look forward to eating. Enjoy these 10 tips for making a packed lunch enjoyable.

]]>Packing your lunch for work can certainly save you hundreds of dollars over the course of a year. But how about helping you lose weight or at least eat healthier? Taking a little time to plan on the weekend or the night before can provide you with a nutritious lunch that you look forward to eating. Here’s some tips on ways to keep it enjoyable:

1. Eat Out!

Okay, so our first tip is the exact opposite of what we just told you, but planning one day during the week that you’ll eat out may just give you the motivation to pack your lunch the other days. Also, try changing up your scenery by getting outside for your lunch and maybe even a quick walk afterwards with a co-worker.

2. Leftovers

When cooking dinner, consider preparing enough for there to be an extra portion or two. Put it in a container and have it ready to go for the next day. Consider doing this with your healthier dinners, and maybe not so much for those that are not as nutritionally packed.

3. Shop for Lunch

Just like you might plan dinners for the week prior to visiting the grocery store, plan lunches as well. Purchase the necessary ingredients and prepare lunch foods for the next day while you’re cooking dinner the night before.

4. Salad in Jar

This is all the rage and a fun way to get in your veggies. Make a few of these on Sunday and you’re ready to grab and go during the week.

5. Keep fruits and veggies ready to go

Bananas are great for this! There’s nothing special needed to bring a banana. Try preparing other fruits and veggies in advance, like washing grapes and apples or slicing up cucumbers, peppers or melons. Go ahead and put them in plastic baggies or containers, and you can just throw them in your lunch bag in the morning.

6.Prepare Egg Salad, Chicken Salad or Tuna Salad

Make your favorite salad ahead of time. Plan to use leftover chicken or tuna from dinner to make your lunch even more economical. Try this healthier recipe that uses yogurt instead of mayonnaise.

7.Stock Your Office

If you have your own office or cubicle, keep necessities like utensils, paper plates, favorite seasonings or other items to make it easier to eat in. Keep a few prepackaged healthy snacks for days when lunch just wasn’t enough. Think almonds, peanut butter and crackers, or unsweetened apple sauce.

8.The Fab Four

Trying to get healthy but not sure what to pack? Focus on packing one of each of the following four: a whole grain, a fruit, a vegetable, a protein. For example, chicken salad made with grapes, celery, and Greek yogurt on whole grain bread may enable you to get all four in one sandwich. Don’t wait until dinner to eat vegetables. Make it a priority to get at least one serving of vegetables in at lunch.

9.Limits

Although packing lunch in and of itself tends to lead to lower calorie intake, make sure what you’re packing doesn’t throw your good intentions astray. Limit or avoid white bread, chips, cookies and soda. If you choose to pack lunchmeats, look for nitrate free and lower sodium products. Also, don’t fall into the frozen lunch trap. Although there are just as many or more frozen lunches/dinners on the market that appeal to the health conscious, these meals often are very high in sodium and other preservatives.

10. Get Out of the Rut

Feeling in a rut with your lunch packing? Get online. There are many fun websites with photos and recipes for lively packed lunches that you can peruse for ideas and inspiration.

]]>http://acac.com/2015/07/13/10-ways-to-make-packing-your-lunch-more-enjoyable/feed/0How to Put Corporate Wellness to Work for You and Your Companyhttp://acac.com/2015/07/08/how-to-put-corporate-wellness-to-work-for-you-and-your-company/
http://acac.com/2015/07/08/how-to-put-corporate-wellness-to-work-for-you-and-your-company/#commentsWed, 08 Jul 2015 22:14:26 +0000http://acac.com/?p=22615While there is no simple solution to the nation’s growing health crisis, it is evident that if everyone were to become physically active, the savings for individuals, employers, and the nation would be dramatic. With U.S. employees spending nearly 8 hours on the job each day, proven corporate wellness programs can be a win-win for all involved.

]]>While there is no simple solution to the nation’s growing health crisis, it is evident that if everyone were to become physically active, the savings for individuals, employers, and the nation would be dramatic.

Working adults spend a substantial portion of their week in the workplace. In 2014, U.S. employees were on the job an average of 7.8 hours per day, or about one-half of their waking hours. This makes the workplace a useful and practical setting for introducing health and wellness-related initiatives that will benefit employees and their families, as well as employers.

Under the Affordable Care Act, employers with a qualifying wellness program can lower healthcare premiums up to 30% to encourage and reward participation. Companies also can offer employees incentives for participating in educational seminars or biometric screenings, as long as they are not tied to specific outcomes or results. Proven corporate wellness programs, like the ones offered at acac, are a win-win for all involved.

What is corporate wellness? Corporate wellness, or workplace wellness, includes ongoing programs and services companies offer to help employees identify, reduce and prevent health issues that can interfere with not only productivity at work, but overall quality of life. Because regular exercise can help prevent and treat a broad spectrum of common health problems, initiatives that help employees become more physically active are particularly desirable. At acac, corporate memberships are offered to participating companies’ employees at a discounted rate. An introductory program, such as acac’s 60-day/$60 physician referred exercise program (p.r.e.p.), is also available as a low-cost way to get employees started with exercise.

What’s in it for the company? Corporate wellness programs can boost a company’s bottom line and workforce morale. The Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) has reported that health club memberships are the #1 requested benefit by employees across the nation. This type of benefit goes a long way when recruiting new talent to your company and increasing retention rates among current employees. Furthermore, fitter employees perform better, are more likely to find satisfaction in their jobs, and are absent from work less often.

What about the employee? Exercise and the overall benefits of a wellness program have proven to give employees more energy and vigor for their job and personal lives, not to mention the camaraderie that stems from exercising and staying fit with your friends at work! When provided with tools and resources to improve their wellbeing, employees are empowered to take control of unhealthy lifestyle behaviors. Can you imagine the impact a healthier, happier community of employees has on a workplace?

At acac, our promise is to help you “Live Your Best”. We are excited to help our members realize improved health and wellness in a supportive and motivating environment. Working together, not only will your employees live their best, employers will lead companies that are truly at their best. If we can improve health across America one employee and one corporation at a time, then we at acac are fulfilling our company mission.

Corporate wellness at acac is a true partnership. From employee lunch & learn workshops to corporate memberships and programs, acac can help your company introduce new wellness perks and benefits. To plan a health fair or presentation for your company, contact one of our Corporate Wellness Directors:

]]>http://acac.com/2015/07/08/how-to-put-corporate-wellness-to-work-for-you-and-your-company/feed/0Quick Tips for Sitting at a Deskhttp://acac.com/2015/07/01/quick-tips-for-sitting-at-a-desk/
http://acac.com/2015/07/01/quick-tips-for-sitting-at-a-desk/#commentsWed, 01 Jul 2015 13:07:08 +0000http://acac.com/?p=22482Many of us are unaware of problems that can arise from sitting at a desk all day. No need to quit your job! Improve it with these tips!

Many of us are unaware of problems that can arise from sitting at a desk or cubicle all day. That being said, quitting your job to alleviate the situation would be impractical! Don’t worry–here are some quick tips for sitting at a desk that can help you through the workday. Listed below are some common occurrences one might see while being at a desk for prolonged periods of time.

Misalignment of the Hips

Misalignment of the hips is a common problem, especially for females who tend to cross their legs when seated. An easy way to alleviate this problem is to do a few hip opening yoga stretches throughout the day. This will loosen up the muscles in the hip and increase muscle viscosity.

High Blood Pressure

Work can be demanding for everyone and chronic stress can lead to high blood pressure. It is a good idea to take some time during your shift to walk away from what you’re doing and clear your head. Also, try a crossword puzzle or another brain game while you’re on break. Anything you can do to split up the day in smaller blocks of time and lower stress while remaining productive is a plus.

Dry Eyes

Dry eyes are a common problem for those of us who work at computers. People sometimes don’t realize how much of a strain on your eyes it can be to look at a computer all day. The best way to reduce eye strain is to look away every few minutes, roll your eyes around, close your eyes for a minute or lower your computer monitor if possible.

Carpal Tunnel

Carpal tunnel is a common issue that can arise for people who use a computer on a daily basis. Typing and using a cell phone places your fingers & wrists in positions that can be uncomfortable. Easy ways to avoid or alleviate this problem include stretching out your wrists and fingers every so often, as well as opening and closing your hands to make the joints more elastic.

Don’t forget to take care of yourself while you are work. Not only will you enjoy your day more, but you will be more productive while working with a smile!

]]>http://acac.com/2015/07/01/quick-tips-for-sitting-at-a-desk/feed/0physical health success podcasthttp://acac.com/2015/06/22/physical-health-success-podcast/
http://acac.com/2015/06/22/physical-health-success-podcast/#commentsMon, 22 Jun 2015 18:12:44 +0000http://acac.com/?p=22462Adults are busier than ever it seems. Maintaining a regular regimen that includes eating right and exercising isn’t always easy but it is possible, and very necessary in order to achieve physical health success. Listen to this "Sounds of Success" podcast featuring Dr. Pamela Ross and acac owner Phil Wendel.

]]>Adults are busier than ever it seems. Maintaining a regular regimen that includes eating right and exercising isn’t always easy but it is possible, and very necessary, in order to achieve physical health success.

WINA 1070’s radio show “Sounds of Success” featured an informative session all about achieving physical health success. The guests on this special show included the CEO of Holistic Medical Consultants, Dr. Pamela Ross, and acac‘s founder, Phil Wendel. Listen to the podcast to learn key points for improving your health, uncover myths about exercise, and receive basic tips for getting started or getting back into an exercise regimen.

]]>http://acac.com/2015/06/22/physical-health-success-podcast/feed/0Introducing EDGE by acachttp://acac.com/2015/06/15/introducing-edge-by-acac/
http://acac.com/2015/06/15/introducing-edge-by-acac/#commentsMon, 15 Jun 2015 18:54:14 +0000http://acac.com/?p=22062acac Fitness & Wellness Centers are pleased to introduce EDGE, a new fitness studio concept, at the Shops at Stonefield later this summer. The 11,500 square-foot facility is located at 2075 Bond Street, Suite 150, between Rocksalt restaurant and Duck Donuts. The studio will offer unique training experiences, including sports performance programs designed by Mike Curtis, head strength and conditioning coach for UVA men’s and women’s basketball and former head strength coach of the NBA’s Memphis Grizzlies; high-intensity, boutique-style cycling classes; and specialized yoga programs, such as hot Vinyasa, Yin Yoga and aerial yoga.

]]>acac Fitness & Wellness Centers are pleased to introduce EDGE, a new fitness studio concept, at the Shops at Stonefield later this year. The 11,500 square-foot facility is located at 2075 Bond Street, Suite 150, between Rocksalt restaurant and Duck Donuts. The studio will offer unique training experiences, including sports performance programs designed by Mike Curtis, Division One Collegiate Strength and Conditioning Coach and former head strength coach of the NBA’s Memphis Grizzlies; high-intensity, boutique-style cycling classes; and specialized yoga programs, such as hot Vinyasa, Yin Yoga and aerial yoga.

Curtis’ sports training program is called ADAPT, which stands for Athletic Development and Performance Training. It will operate in a functional training area of nearly 5,000 square feet outfitted with sprint tracks, turf field, Olympic bars, rigs and racks, and other athletic training gear, such as TRX, kettlebells, plyo boxes and ropes.

Recreational and performance athletes, both youth and adult, as well as tactical athletes like police, fire and military personnel, stand to benefit from Curtis’ training methodologies.

The 1,100 square-foot cycle studio will house over 30 cycles and feature a special theatre-style lighting and sound experience. The cycle classes fall into two distinct styles according to Kirsten Ryan, district manager for acac and EDGE.

“While they will all be intense, inspirational rides, the Rhythm ride is like going to a rock concert or party while the Race ride is like being in a road race,” she says. Ryan adds that the room will be equipped with leaderboards for riders to chart their in-class performance and add a dose of friendly competition.

The 1,120 square-foot yoga studio with a dedicated lounge rounds out EDGE’s class studios. With a rope wall and the ability to heat the room to temperatures as high as 104 degrees, EDGE can offer a wider variety of yoga classes than many other studios.

Plans for the facility also include full men’s and women’s locker rooms, features not often found in specialty studios.

While unlimited EDGE memberships will be available, drop-in participation is welcome on a pay-per-class basis. All sessions will be booked online at the official EDGE website: http://edgecville.com.

Ryan believes that EDGE’s results-oriented programs, flexible memberships and amenities will appeal to those looking for a one-of-a-kind workout experience.

“We call the studio ‘EDGE’ because we want our clients to find their competitive edge,” says Ryan. “Whether you are an athlete preparing for your upcoming season, a marathon runner, or simply a fitness enthusiast, training at EDGE will help you reach your peak performance.”

To stay informed with the latest EDGE updates, visit http://edgecville.com and follow EDGE on facebook, twitter or Instagram.

Combine oats, flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt in a medium bowl. Cream together oil, avocado, and brown sugar in a large bowl; stir in yogurt and eggs. Add oat mixture to avocado mixture and stir until combined; stir in dates.

]]>http://acac.com/2015/06/11/avocado-oatmeal-breakfast-cookies-recipe/feed/0test the waters with our 30-day guaranteehttp://acac.com/2015/06/01/30-day-guarantee/
http://acac.com/2015/06/01/30-day-guarantee/#commentsMon, 01 Jun 2015 12:00:12 +0000http://acac.com/?p=20163Making a decision to join a club is difficult. Will I like the people there? Will I really stick with it? Did I make the right choice? These are all fair questions that can only be answered by trying the club. With our 30-day guarantee, you can experience acac without the pressure of wondering whether you made the right decision.

]]>We understand that making a decision to join a club is difficult. Will I like the people there? Will I really stick with it? Did I make the right choice in joining this club? These are all fair questions that can only be answered by trying the club. With our 30-day guarantee, you can experience acac without the pressure of wondering whether you made the right decision. We encourage you to take advantage of acac‘s new member concierge service so that you can meet our team and get connected with activities and programs that are the right fit for you.

What makes acac special?

We hire friendly, service-oriented team members with a high level of expertise in their respective fields.

We have high standards for cleanliness and regularly update and improve our facilities.

The breadth of programming and amenities in our clubs are unparalleled.

Our member community is a diverse group of residents and business professionals of all ages and stages of life who are committed to improving their health and lifestyles.

We offer medically based programs in partnership with area hospitals, physicians, and other healthcare professionals.

You and your reasons for joining a club are our top priority.

Please put us to the test! We encourage you to try us and decide for yourself if we are the best club for you. If you are like our other members, you will see that we are. We look forward to the opportunity to meet you and prove ourselves to you.

]]>http://acac.com/2015/06/01/30-day-guarantee/feed/0acac named a top workplacehttp://acac.com/2015/05/15/top-workplace/
http://acac.com/2015/05/15/top-workplace/#commentsFri, 15 May 2015 18:07:59 +0000http://acac.com/?p=21873acac has been recognized as a top workplace in Richmond, Virginia. Among factors considered were employee engagement, community involvement, and diversity.

]]>acac Fitness & Wellness Centers have been named a top workplace in Richmond, Virginia. The Richmond Times Dispatch teamed with Workplace Dynamics to survey and rank private, public, government and non-profit organizations with 35 or more employees. Topics for consideration included workplace environment, benefits and pay, work-life balance, and training. Employee engagement, community involvement, and how companies promote diversity also factored in the evaluation. acac ranked #3 among large companies in Richmond, Virginia.

Our team members cited acac’s strong culture of integrity, professionalism and customer service as an important reason for rating the company a top workplace. Positive relationships with fellow team members and members was also a primary factor. At acac, excellent member service starts with internal member service. The “Golden Rule” concept is the foundation for member service and it encompasses how team members act towards each other, as well as interactions with guests, vendors and service contractors. We believe that a company that regards its team members as its most valuable asset is not only a great place to work, it is a great place to do business.

Why does our team love working at acac? View the video below to find out!

]]>http://acac.com/2015/05/15/top-workplace/feed/0acac donates $83,400 to Alzheimer’s Associationhttp://acac.com/2015/05/11/acac-donates-83400-to-alzheimers-association/
http://acac.com/2015/05/11/acac-donates-83400-to-alzheimers-association/#commentsMon, 11 May 2015 15:50:21 +0000http://acac.com/?p=21831Alzheimer’s Association chapters in Virginia and Pennsylvania recently received an $83,400 donation from acac Fitness and Wellness Centers as a result of the company’s March 30 Days for $30 campaign. The campaign, which ran at acac’s locations in Midlothian, Short Pump and Charlottesville, VA, as well as Exton and West Chester, PA, provided individuals a […]

Alzheimer’s Association chapters in Virginia and Pennsylvania recently received an $83,400 donation from acac Fitness and Wellness Centers as a result of the company’s March 30 Days for $30 campaign. The campaign, which ran at acac’s locations in Midlothian, Short Pump and Charlottesville, VA, as well as Exton and West Chester, PA, provided individuals a 30-day membership for just $30 with 100% of funds being donated to the Alzheimer’s Association.

“The Alzheimer’s Association is extremely grateful for the continued support of community and corporate partners like acac,”said Jeff Baldwin, Marketing and Communications Director for the Alzheimer’s Association Greater Richmond Chapter.

“The Alzheimer’s Association is making great strides in our community, and the world, fighting and supporting those fighting such a debilitating disease,” added Greene. “We are excited to help them raise awareness and funds to carry out their mission.”

“One of acac’s five core values is Community,” said Wendy Greene, acac Marketing Director. “We take an active role in our community and we believe in dedicating our time, energy and resources to make a difference in the lives of others.”

“As more and more evidence indicate that brain and heart health are important in the prevention of Alzheimer’s and other dementias, a partnership with acac was, and is, a natural fit,” explained Baldwin.

As part of the campaign, acac shared Alzheimer’s facts and figures with their members, and staff from the Alzheimer’s Association held Know the 10 Signs of Alzheimer’s education seminars at acac’s Richmond-area centers.

“The generosity of the acac community proves that when we all come together, we can end Alzheimer’s.”

]]>Your son is invited to THE PERFECT SUMMER SLEEPAWAY BASKETBALL CAMP for boys ages 8-14 years! Virginia Legends Basketball Camp is coming back to Graves Mountain Lodge in June 2015 led by UVA basketball legend Jim Miller, as well as legend guests Barry Parkhill, Bimbo Coles, Edmund Sherod and others. Virginia Legends Basketball Camp and partner acac Fitness & Wellness offer your son the opportunity to learn and refine his basketball skills while enjoying a traditional summer camp experience on a working farm in the picturesque mountains of Syria, Virginia. We unite the coaching talents of basketball stars, both past & present, from Virginia & beyond. VLBC’S focus is not only to help boys be better players, but to also help them become young men of purpose and principle.

VLBC provides an away-from-home learning experience in the beauty of the Central Virginia foothills. Boys ages 8-14 will benefit from this unique camp experience where they can explore who they are at their core and learn values that will carry them into adulthood. Your son will benefit from top-notch sports coaching that emphasizes not only skills development but also character building: teamwork, sportsmanship, fairness, collaboration, competition, physical activity, learning from mentors, and discovering the wonders of nature. These contribute to a child’s understanding of his place in the world and what he can achieve, all while building self-esteem, cementing lifelong friendships and creating fond memories.

The Graves experience is amazing! First, it is a good dose of basketball. The coaches blend the fundamentals with core values like team, passion, responsibility and character. Second, the setting is majestic and peaceful with basketball courts by the banks of the Rose River, surrounded by mountains. Third, the food is outstanding! There is no better camp food anywhere. Lastly, the lodge’s most precious asset is its people. Starting with Jimmy & Rachel Graves and their family, the hospitality of the entire staff is second to none!

We at VLBC and acac look forward to building future programs to include girls camps and father-son/mother-daughter camps, in addition to offering multiple camp sessions and basketball clinics at acac clubs in Virginia.

]]>http://acac.com/2015/04/23/new-boys-basketball-camp/feed/0Risotto-Style Barley with (Winter) Citrus and Arugulahttp://acac.com/2015/03/16/risotto-style-barley-with-winter-citrus-and-arugula/
http://acac.com/2015/03/16/risotto-style-barley-with-winter-citrus-and-arugula/#commentsMon, 16 Mar 2015 14:59:04 +0000http://acac.com/?p=21514 Finding tasty barley menu ideas is a challenge for many cooks. This creamy, risotto-style recipe is a good choice during the winter or all year long, whether as a hearty, meatless main dish or as a complement to roasts or other meat dishes. Makes: 4 to 6 servings Ingredients: 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil […]

Finding tasty barley menu ideas is a challenge for many cooks. This creamy, risotto-style recipe is a good choice during the winter or all year long, whether as a hearty, meatless main dish or as a complement to roasts or other meat dishes.

Heat the oil medium-hot in a large, heavy saucepan. Add the onion, shallots, garlic, and salt and sauté, stirring steadily, until the onion begins to soften, about 4 minutes.

Stir in the barley, coating it to a nice sheen. Add the wine and simmer until some liquid is absorbed, 3 to 4 minutes. Adjust the heat to maintain a gentle, active simmer. (A flame tamer will diffuse the heat and help avoid hot spots and scorching.)

In increments, 1 cup at a time, add the water, letting the barley absorb most of the liquid between additions. Stir regularly to avoid scorching. The barley is cooked when it is only slightly chewy. Not all the liquid must be absorbed; some prefer this dish a little “brothy.”

Meanwhile, grate the zest of the orange. Peel and segment the fruit. Cut the segments in half, reserving any juice. When the barley is tender, stir in the orange zest, fruit and juice, the lemon zest, cheese and crème fraiche (or alternative). Adjust the seasoning to taste. Stir in the arugula. Just before serving, top each serving with toasted nuts.

]]>http://acac.com/2015/03/16/risotto-style-barley-with-winter-citrus-and-arugula/feed/0Work out & give back!http://acac.com/2015/03/01/work-out-give-back/
http://acac.com/2015/03/01/work-out-give-back/#commentsSun, 01 Mar 2015 01:00:16 +0000http://acac.com/?p=21447acac invites you to work out & give back with our 30 days for $30 campaign during the month of March. Your $30 gives you a 30-day membership in the club. 100% of funds will go to benefit the Alzheimer’s Association. Chuck Boyer was an avid runner. In 2012, Chuck was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease […]

]]>acac invites you to work out & give back with our 30 days for $30 campaign during the month of March. Your $30 gives you a 30-day membership in the club. 100% of funds will go to benefit the Alzheimer’s Association.

Chuck Boyer was an avid runner. In 2012, Chuck was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease and later Lewy Body dementia. He passed away recently, but his daughter Amy recalls how he shared his love of exercise with their family and encouraged them to lead active, healthy lives. His passion for wellness continues to inspire her, a message Amy furthers through her work as an acac team member.

Did you know?

Every 67 seconds someone in the United States develops Alzheimer’s disease. More than 5 million Americans are living with the disease. Some estimates project that by 2050, the number of adults age 65 and older with Alzheimer’s may nearly triple.

Experts believe that the majority of Alzheimer’s cases develop due to a combination of factors, such as age, genes, environment, lifestyle and co-existing medical conditions. Regular physical exercise may help lower the risk of Alzheimer’s and vascular dementia. Strong social connections and staying mentally active may also lower risk. Promising research is underway.

Help wipe out Alzheimer’s disease. For more information, including facts about the disease, research and advocacy, visit www.alz.org.

]]>http://acac.com/2015/03/01/work-out-give-back/feed/0Why do our members love p.r.e.p.®?http://acac.com/2015/02/18/why-do-our-members-love-p-r-e-p/
http://acac.com/2015/02/18/why-do-our-members-love-p-r-e-p/#commentsWed, 18 Feb 2015 20:50:44 +0000http://acac.com/?p=21409We had to ask, “Why do you love p.r.e.p.®?” Check out what our members had to say!